public finance

The Guardian’s John Harris is joined by the former Conservative chief secretary to the Treasury David Gauke and the economist and Labour candidate Miatta Fahnbulleh to go through today’s budget announcements. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

The government has an announced an extra £500million to help local councils in England. After years of squeezed budgets, many are facing bankruptcy. What can be done to prevent more from tipping over? The Guardian’s John Harris hears from Bill Revans, the leader of Somerset council, the Guardian’s social policy editor, Patrick Butler, and the Labour candidate for Peckham, Miatta Fahnbulleh. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/politicspod

Nottingham council is the latest to in effect declare itself bankrupt, and one in 10 county councils in England are at risk of following suit. What does it mean for the services that so many people rely on? Jessica Murray reports. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/infocus